Clothes show live young hairdresser of the year 2011: advice for entries
Published
19th Aug 2011
by rachael
The nationwide competition is searching for an on-trend, commercial look created by an up-and-coming hairdresser under the age of 30.
You can find out everything you need to know about the competition here, but here's some extra advice for putting together a winning entry that will attract the judges' attention.
Your entry
To enter, all you need to do is submit a colour photograph of a look you have created that reflects current trends. It needs to be a commercial, wearable style.
Your image does not have to be taken exclusively for the competition, but it does need to be a look that you can recreate on stage in front of the audience at the Clothes Show Live if you are chosen as a finalist.
Creating a winning image
1. Finding the right model
If you don't have the budget to hire a professional model, it doesn't have to be a problem - you'll just have to be resourceful. The 2008 winner, Kate Hubbard, used a junior from her salon as a model, while HJ's 2007 Newcomer of the Year, Anna Chapman, used My Space to source a model.
If you don't find anyone appropriate don't forget the old favourite, word of mouth: L'Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy winners Mack Hairdressing used a client's sister for their winning entry.
2. Picking the perfect photographer
Using a specialist hair photographer will transform a good shot into a fantastic, eye-catching image but hiring the experts can be expensive.
You could contact your local college or university, where students will happily offer their services in exchange for new images for their portfolio.
3. Choosing suitable clothes
Picking the perfect outfit for a hair shoot is important - clothing needs to complement, but not distract from, the hair.
Having a professional stylist is the ideal solution but if you're on a budget make sure you research winning shoots online and in magazines to see what works. Your outfit also needs to be on-trend, so don't forget to look at the latest catwalk collections.
Don't forget to have plenty of options: your favourite outfit in the flesh may not look great on camera.
4. Getting the make-up right
Even the most beautiful model needs make-up before a photoshoot; the camera picks up flaws and marks that most of us would never notice.
Great make-up can also complement your look - try something striking and fashion-forward, but make sure it doesn't detract from the hair.
Visit Who's Testing? too - this site links photographers, models, make-up artists and stylists with those looking for help.